DCA Benchmarks: Powder commentary week 48

The powder market was marked by mixed results across week 48. Food-grade skimmed milk powder (SMP) experienced a consistent decline across Northwestern Europe, reaching €2,060 per ton, with a weekly decline of 1.67% across the whole region. Inputs were relatively consistent across market participants, ranging between €2,030 and €2,075 per ton, with a standard deviation of 1.67%. Two outliers were excluded from the calculation.German benchmarks mirrored the decline in the region (-1.67%), while the Netherlands observed a slightly more intense drop (-1.9%).Meanwhile, feed-grade SMP declined by 0.96% week-on-week to €2,065 per ton. Prices ranged from €2,050 €2,100 per ton, with two observations excluded from the calculation.Whole milk powder (WMP) benchmarks reached €3,090 per ton, reflecting a decline of 1.67% compared to the previous week and an aligned set of observations from contributors.In the whey segment, the mixed results were more evident. With food-grade whey powder benchmarks declining by 1.35% week-on-week to €1,100 per ton, prices are showing less consistency than milk powder at a standard deviation of 4.4% (€1,075 - €1,115). Meanwhile, feed-grade whey increased by 1.01% over the previous week to €1,000 per ton. The price range was narrower in this segment, marked by a standard deviation of 1.8%.For lactose and Fat-Filled Milk Powder, only one input was received per benchmark. The indication for Lactose reached €1,150 per ton, down 4.96% over the previous week. Meanwhile, FFMP faced a weekly increase of 0.22% to €2,275 per ton.Mixed market sentimentThe sentiment in the market is mixed, with some participants reporting stable to a slight decline and others reporting relatively strong prices. Contributors have highlighted the favorable export environment for SMP, with increasing powder provision. As for whey products, the general sentiment is not negative, considering the increasing amount of product that is allocated for the manufacture of higher-value protein concentrates and isolates.